The Buckeyes have made their pick - and it’s a bold one. Ohio State is bringing in Arthur Smith as its new offensive coordinator, a move that signals a shift in philosophy and perhaps a bit of a gamble on NFL pedigree over college familiarity.
Smith, who spent the last two seasons as the offensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers, steps into a high-expectation role in Columbus. Before that, he was the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, bringing with him a wealth of NFL experience - but very little recent time in the college ranks.
In fact, his last college coaching stint came back in 2011, when he was a defensive intern. That’s a long time away from the recruiting trails, campus life, and the unique rhythm of the college football calendar.
Still, Ryan Day clearly sees something in Smith that fits his vision for the Buckeyes’ offense. And not everyone is skeptical. Former Ohio State linebacker Joshua Perry, who remains plugged into the program, is all in on the hire.
Speaking on Bishop & Friends on 97.1 The Fan, Perry broke down why he thinks Smith is the right guy for the job. “This is a guy who is known for aggressive run schemes and is known for great play-action passing,” Perry said. “And I think it complements what Ryan Day wants to do in his own philosophy, where he's great in the pass game.”
That’s a key point. Day’s offense has been pass-heavy in recent years - and for good reason.
With quarterbacks like Justin Fields and C.J. Stroud, and wide receivers who keep NFL scouts drooling, the Buckeyes have leaned into their aerial attack.
But the run game? It’s had its moments, but it hasn’t always been a consistent focal point.
Enter Smith, whose background suggests a more balanced - and potentially more physical - approach. His offenses in the NFL have been built around punishing run games, creative formations, and play-action concepts that open up opportunities downfield. If that philosophy translates to the college level, it could be exactly what Ohio State needs to diversify its attack and keep defenses honest.
Of course, the Buckeyes’ offensive firepower isn’t in question. Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and quarterback Julian Sayin are expected to be the stars of the show next season. Smith, already a dynamic playmaker, will be looking to build on his breakout year, while Sayin, one of the most highly touted quarterback prospects in the country, is poised to take a big step forward.
The challenge for Arthur Smith will be blending his pro-style concepts with the speed and spacing of the college game - and doing it in a way that keeps both of those offensive weapons fully engaged. In other words, run the ball more effectively without taking the ball out of Sayin’s hands or limiting Smith’s chances to dominate on the outside.
One advantage Smith brings to the table? He’s been a play-caller.
That’s something Brian Hartline didn’t have much experience with before last season, and it showed at times. Smith’s ability to script drives, adjust mid-game, and manage tempo could give Ohio State a steadier hand on the offensive side of the ball.
There’s no doubt this hire comes with some risk - anytime you bring in a coach with limited college experience, there’s a learning curve. But if Smith can mesh with Day’s passing acumen and bring a tougher, more dynamic run game to the table, the Buckeyes might be adding the missing piece to an already loaded offense.
It’s a new era in Columbus - and all eyes will be on how Arthur Smith’s NFL chops translate to the scarlet and gray.